Inscrutable: Flamestitch PillowThe jewel tones of this pillow are quite similar to those used on wallets embroidered in the 18th century. Thick colored wool threads stitched on a canvas backing with a border of green wool fringe. The back is
red toile de jouy and the scene depicts the famous first flight of Joseph-Michel and Jacques-Etienne Montgolfier in a hot air balloon. Watching man make his first assent into the heavens (1783) was none other than Benjamin Franklin himself. The fabrics are 19th century and the pillow was probably crafted later.
Condition: Vibrant colors. Loss to wool threads